As the clock struck midnight to welcome in 2025, approximately 32 million viewers tuned in live across ABC, CBS, and CNN, eager to celebrate the new year.

Once again, ABC took the crown as the most-watched network for the evening, with Ryan Seacrest and Rita Ora anchoring their iconic New Year’s Rockin’ Eve from the bustling backdrop of Times Square.

Following closely were CBS's festivities hosted in Nashville by Rachel Smith and Keith Urban, and CNN's star-studded coverage featuring Anderson Cooper and Andy Cohen.

Dominating the night, "Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest 2025" not only led in ratings but also achieved impressive viewership numbers.

The late-night segment averaged around 17.9 million viewers, peaking at a dazzling 21.5 million during the critical midnight moment—an unwavering trend similar to last year’s figures.

ABC’s early programming from 8 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. also saw robust engagement, starting with an average of 6.2 million viewers and climbing to 9.5 million as the countdown approached.

In contrast, CBS’s "New Year’s Eve Live: Nashville’s Big Bash" garnered a substantial but lower audience, averaging 4.9 million viewers from 8 to 10 p.m., and inching up to 6.9 million for its midnight segment.

Notably, last year CBS outperformed ABC during the same time slot, propelled by the lead-in from an NFL game; however, without that advantage this year, its numbers dipped.

On the cable front, CNN's New Year’s Eve Live, helmed by Cooper and Cohen, made waves by topping its cable competitors, capturing an audience of 3.7 million during the ball drop.

They also averaged 3 million viewers from 11 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., while the cumulative viewership from 8 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. was around 1.9 million—both marks reflecting a decline from last year's impressive turnout.

Interestingly, CNN Max, CNN's streaming service, also experienced an upswing, boasting its fourth-best day on record, following only significant events like the 2024 election night and presidential debates.

As audiences continue to embrace these beloved New Year’s traditions, the dynamic between live television and streaming platforms presents a fascinating evolution in year-end celebrations.

With shows like “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve” consistently breaking records, it’s clear that Americans are eager for communal celebrations, even in an increasingly digital world.

As we look to next year, which network will take the crown? Stay tuned!